Program Highlights

  • Develop a portfolio of work from different writing genres, including gonzo journalism, poetry, fiction, and scriptwriting
  • Discover inspiration and cultivate your skills through daily writing exercises and mentor texts
  • Become a stronger writer by honing reading skills and diving deep into short stories, poems, drama, articles, and essays
  • Learn more about academic pathways and career opportunities for individuals passionate about the written word

Program Highlights

  • Develop a portfolio of work from different writing genres, including gonzo journalism, poetry, fiction, and scriptwriting
  • Discover inspiration and cultivate your skills through daily writing exercises and mentor texts
  • Become a stronger writer by honing reading skills and diving deep into short stories, poems, drama, articles, and essays
  • Learn more about academic pathways and career opportunities for individuals passionate about the written word
  • W H E N
    • Late July: July 21-August 2, 2019 (RESIDENTIAL ONLY)

Overview

Words have power. Words shape how people perceive reality. Words can change the world. Join Summer Springboard’s Creative Writing program and become immersed in the study of four different genres using the Writer’s Workshop methodology. Through a variety of lessons, writing prompts, guest speakers, field trips, and time to put pen to paper, the course will sharpen writing skills and love of the written word. Discover what it takes to be a novelist, a poet, a scriptwriter, and a gonzo journalist.

Note: Summer Springboard – Session 1-3 – 2019 is operated independently of Yale University and is not sponsored or endorsed by the University. The views expressed in connection with the program are not official positions, statements of advice, nor opinions of Yale University and should not be viewed as an endorsement by Yale of any such views or statements.

Hands-On Learning

Practice the craft of writing daily in a supportive environment, with plenty of time to revise work after input from instructors and peers. While the course will strengthen core writing skills, the focus is on exploring new forms of expression and stretching talent.

Writers must also be readers. The study of writing is further developed through reading established authors and mentor texts. You will read short stories, poems, drama, articles, and essays to discuss, write about, and use as inspiration. Come prepared to write short scripts for television after in-depth discussions on the importance of dialogue. Bring characters and settings to life before writing short stories, and learn research tools before reporting on timely topics. Ultimately, participants drive the curriculum based on their writing interests.

Real World Insights

Throughout the program, you’ll prepare for publication and submit a finalized piece of writing to an appropriate online or print magazine. You’ll meet a variety of experts in the field of writing and publishing who will provide advice and tips on academic preparation and career pathways to explore. In addition, get a glimpse into the life of Mark Twain, by touring his residence.

Career Exploration

We will discuss the wide variety of professions within the writing and publishing fields such as a published author, professor, journalist, and more. You'll get a deeper sense of your unique motivations and aptitudes and how that aligns with potential academic and career choices. This helps students make better informed decisions about some of life’s most important choices.

Faculty

Instructor - Courses are taught by accomplished and passionate faculty recruited from many area colleges, universities and professional forums. Each faculty member is selected for their subject area expertise and proven ability to both challenge and captivate students.

Curriculum Advisor - Academic programs are conceptualized by a Curriculum Advisor, an expert in the field with years of experience. While instructors vary each year, the Curriculum Advisors ensure continuity in our curriculum.

Instructor

Dr. Lisa Acerbo, Ed.D

Dr. Lisa Acerbo is a university professor and published author of five young adult and new adult novels. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Dr. Acerbo helps judge a local annual literary competition and arts festival. She holds her Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and has always loved reading and writing.

Full Program Schedule